HOUGHTON, MI - Researchers at Michigan Technological University are looking to use drones to help state workers and contractors inspect Michigan’s gravel roads, according to the Houghton Daily Mining Gazette.

A university research team, based in Ann Arbor, would oversee the automated imaging software that would be mounted on the drones and used to photograph the condition of roads, the newspaper reports.

The project could happen by the end of next year, when federal regulations are expected to make flying the machines commercially legal, the newspaper said.

The idea behind the project is to help the state save money “by helping them pinpoint gravel roadway problems more efficiently than if they had relied on complaints and physically sending out people to assess problems,” according to the story.

Drones have been eyed for many uses, including law enforcement and delivering products. One company, Detroit Aircraft Corporation, is creating drones designed to fly reconnaissance missions for law enforcement and first responders, as well as deliver packages for companies such as UPS or FedEx.

Brian McVicar covers education for MLive and The Grand Rapids Press. Email him at bmcvicar@mlive.com or follow him on Twitter